North Syracuse teacher accused of murder in court

The North Syracuse teacher accused of murdering his brother-in-law could take his chances with a trial.

James Ball, 55, was charged with second-degree murder and first-degree criminal use of a firearm for the shooting death of his brother-in-law, 40-year-old Christopher Ross.

Ball was in an Onondaga Court room on Tuesday.

Court proceedings have been adjourned until next month.

Ball's attorney, Emil Rossi, declined to comment about the case when asked by CNYCentral.

The North Syracuse Central School District website lists Ball as a 4th grade teacher at Smith Road Elementary School.

"We are deeply saddened by this devastating incident," the school district said in a statement. "Our school district's primary concern is to help students, staff and community cope during this difficult time."